Quote[/b] ]In addition to the potential benefits for the immune system and anabolism as a whole with respect to proper glutamine status within the body, one study reported a 4.3 times greater growth hormone (GH) release at 90 minutes postingestion of a glutamine formula containing only 2 grams of glutamine mixed in a soft drink (6). Eight of nine subjects tested responded favorably with respect to increases in GH status. As important was the finding that an oral load of only 2 grams of glutamine significantly elevated plasma glutamine levels indicating that the glutamine, taken by mouth, did reach the periphery (past the gut and into circulation). The authors speculated that larger amounts of glutamine would be expected to raise glutamine levels higher, however, large amounts (unspecified but less than 20 grams) carry the risk of activating liver uptake. Remember, liver is a consumer (after feeding), and a producer (during fasting). If the liver saw too much glutamine upon first pass, a good portion may be consumed by the liver, never allowing it to reach the periphery (muscles). Finally, the researchers indicated that a rise in plasma glutamine would be expected to drive up muscle cellular glutamine content, thereby slowing protein breakdown, a process accelerated under acidonegic conditions (during intense exercise). The rise in GH may also accelerate kidney acid secretion and thereby facilitate elimination of acid from the body fluids, a potentially important role during strenuous exercise when acidogenesis may limit performance (6).